The project is mandatory for the Modeling, Simulation & Gaming Master specialization MSG) of SEPAM, but open to students from all other faculties and external.

Expected prior knowledge

Bachelor

Summary

The simulation game design project offers conceptual insights as well as ‘hands on’ experience with simulation-gaming (SG). SG is an established field of practice with proven value for instance in the field of spatial and urban planning, ecology, engineering and design, public administration, business management, learning, research and consultancy. The staggering growth and success of the video gaming industry has triggered the interest in simulation games – from paper based games to video games for learning and policy making - even more. Besides creativity and enthusiasm, there are no entry requirements. In this course, students acquire advanced knowledge in, and experience with, gaming-simulation for serious use, i.e. for policy- and decision support, organization and management and professional learning.

Course Contents

Experienced speakers, from consultancy organizations (s.a. Accenture), game designers and universities, will give lectures on history, future, design, typology and facilitation of SG. (We will discuss the role of computers and video games, but emphasis is NOT on technology!) We will have ample opportunity to try out a number of (role-playing, board etc.) games that hold powerful messages about decision-making and management. Most of the work will be done in small teams, in which students will develop their own (non-digital) game to support a real-life or mock up case of policy/decision-making or organization and management. In a small group, you will also work on a scientific question related to game design.

Study Goals

After completion of this course the student will have acquired knowledge and insights about:The history, backgrounds, key-concepts, formats and applications of simulation games.After completion of this course the student will be able to:1. Design a (prototype) of a simulation game to be used for learning, research or intervention 2. Apply a game design cycle (or systematic design steps)3. Define, conceptualize and construct the various game components4. Facilitate simple simulation games